In a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around election integrity and the controversial United Sovereign American Resolution aimed at ensuring a legally valid 2024 election. Commissioner Scholl and Commissioner West initiated steps to advance this resolution, but Chair Smith canceled all public meetings until after the election, citing a need to reduce heated rhetoric surrounding the electoral process. Smith noted that much of this rhetoric stemmed from media coverage.
The meeting highlighted concerns regarding the integrity of voter rolls in Oregon, with the state recently identifying 1,200 individuals illegally registered to vote. This revelation has raised alarms among local officials and residents, prompting calls for an independent audit of the voter rolls. Commissioner Scholl formally requested this audit from the Oregon Secretary of State, emphasizing the importance of transparency in election operations.
During the meeting, local residents expressed their desire for greater engagement with elected officials and the need for a free exchange of ideas. They criticized negative portrayals of Clackamas County residents by local mayors, asserting that citizens have a right to voice their concerns about election integrity.
Sandra Nelson, a representative of United Sovereign Americans, spoke passionately about the organization's mission to restore trust in elections, highlighting the credentials of its leadership and volunteers. She urged the commissioners to support the resolution, citing widespread public demand for secure and transparent elections.
The discussions reflect a growing unease among Oregonians regarding the electoral process, with many advocating for reforms to ensure the integrity of future elections. The meeting concluded with a call for local officials to consider the implications of home rule in the context of state election laws, as residents continue to seek assurance that their votes will count in a fair and trustworthy manner.